GITEX, the largest African technology and startup showcase on the continent, commenced yesterday, and In spite of the blistering 27-degree Marrakesh heat, a vibrant crowd, elegantly attired in business suits, thronged the Boulevard Al Yarmouk animating the thoroughfare with bustling pedestrian activity.
The 2023 event drew a crowd of 25,000, and the organizers plan to double that number this week. Judging by the fleet of GITEX buses waiting to ferry attendees from all the major hotels in the city, it appears they are well on their way to achieving this goal. The name tags revealing the origins of participants read like a roll call of every African country, underscoring the event’s wide-reaching appeal. The size of the exhibition hall is gigantic and can surely accommodate the projected crowd by the organizers.
The event features some of the world’s most recognizable companies, including Huawei, PwC, Visa, and McKinsey. In addition, a horde of startups specializing in foodtech, healthtech, mobility, fintech, and cleantech are making their mark, showcasing innovative solutions to some of Africa’s most pressing challenges.
The ambiance within the vast exhibition tents is electric, filled with the hum of conversations, the flashing lights of tech displays, and the palpable excitement of networking and discovery. Attendees have the unique opportunity to engage directly with cutting-edge technologies and visionary entrepreneurs, making the event not only a showcase of current innovations but also a glimpse into the future of technology in Africa.
Read also: Breaking: Nigeria to Host GITEX Africa, the Continent’s Biggest Tech Show, in 2025.
The event also features numerous panel discussions, keynote speeches, and interactive workshops, providing a comprehensive platform for learning and collaboration. Industry leaders and experts are set to share insights on the latest trends and future directions in technology, offering invaluable knowledge to all who attend.
GITEX Africa stands as a testament to the continent’s growing influence in the global tech arena. By bringing together such a diverse and dynamic group of participants, the event fosters a spirit of unity and collective progress. As the week progresses, Marrakesh will undoubtedly continue to buzz with the energy and potential that GITEX Africa has ignited, making it a landmark event in the African tech landscape.
